My service as interim chancellor draws to a close today, and I want to thank all of you for your support, hard work and partnership during my time in this role. Together, we have continued to make remarkable progress on our journey to officially become Indiana University Indianapolis in just a few months. I already feel the excitement and sense the energy of so many of you as our course to become one of the nation’s premier urban research universities continues to gain momentum.

And we greatly anticipate the arrival of Chancellor Latha Ramchand on Monday. I’ve very much enjoyed getting to know Latha throughout this transition, and I look forward to serving as a member of her academic leadership team in my role as dean of the IU School of Dentistry.

Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch chats with residence hall workers on move-in day. Photo by Liz Kaye, Indiana University The last seven months have been some of the most exciting and gratifying of my career. The creativity and commitment of our students, faculty and staff have inspired me every day and remind me of the values and vision at the heart of our collective endeavor.

As a graduate of this campus, I never imagined that one day I would be called upon to lead it, which has been a privilege. As I return to the School of Dentistry next week, I remain ready to serve our students, our campus and our community.

Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch is the outgoing interim chancellor of IUPUI and dean of the IU School of Dentistry.